15 Best Waterfalls in Spain

Spain is known for its historic sights, flamenco dancers, music, art, and natural beauty. Part of this natural beauty in Spain are the waterfalls.

Monastario de Piedra is one location of many waterfalls and other family friendly attractions. Waterfalls including Cascada de Orbaneja, Salto de la Novia, Chorros del Rio Mundo, and Cascada de Caoza are all very easy to access, as the walks to them are short. This makes them great for visitors with kids.

Those looking to take a longer hike to waterfalls won’t want to miss the country’s tallest waterfall, Cascada del Nervion. Pozo de los Humos, La Cimbarra, and Salto de Sallent (Sant Privat d’en Bas) are other waterfalls that visitors can hike into.

Most of Spain’s waterfalls are best viewed in the wet seasons of fall, winter, and spring. Those visiting in summer should check out Cascada de Ezaro or Fervenza do Toxa, as the run well year-round.

In this blog post, we will explore the best waterfalls Spain has to offer. Whether you are looking for adventure, birdwatching opportunity, meditation spot, or a swimming hole, Spain has a waterfall for you!

Spain’s Most Beautiful Waterfalls

1. Cascada del Nervion

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Cascada del Nervion, also commonly referred to as Salto del Nervion, is the tallest waterfall in Spain. It plummets over 600 feet in it’s single drop. This magnificent natural feature is located on the border of Castilla y Leon and Pais Vasco, part of Basque country.

It is fairly easy to view Cascada del Nervion from the top and bottom of the falls, though a bit of a hike is required to reach each view point. The most common access point for Cascada del Nervion is on the Castilla y Leon side of it.

To reach a lookout, one can park and hike 3.2 km along PR-BU 42. The trail is labeled with signage that says Mirador Salto del Nervion. The terrain you must cross to get to Cascada del Nervion is wide, gravel, and mostly flat. It is also possible to bike this route if you want to reach the waterfall quicker.

Hiking to the waterfall, you will pass ruins of a monastery from the 11th century. Raptors are frequently near this waterfall, if you want to birdwatch. There are other interesting features such as statues on the path.

Interpretive signs provide visitors with further information on this location, as well. This route to Cascada del Nervion concludes at an overlook that allow you to look straight down. Beware, some visitors find vertigo can be an issue from this point.

You can also view Cascada del Nervion from the base, by hiking from a carpark near Delika. This trek takes a few hours round trip. It requires you to hike up the canyon to the base of the falls. Both viewpoints of the falls are quite spectacular. No matter what way you choose to experience them, you will be impressed.

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2. Pozo de los Humos

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Pozo de los Humos is a unique set of waterfalls found near Masueco. The falls are massive in the wet months, and the sound the water cascading over this spot is loud during the rainy season.

The falls are unique in that they are located where metamorphic and igneous rocks collide along the landscape. Pozo de los Humos is only 150 feet tall. They are not the tallest nor shortest falls in Spain.

The falls can be reached from two locations, one taking you to the top, the other to a lookout that places you in front of the falls. Both hikes to the falls are fairly short, ranging between 1.2-1.8km each way. One has to tackle some steep terrain, no matter which way they choose to view the falls.

During the hottest months of the year, the trail can get hot quickly, as there is not much shade. There is a carpark closer to the falls than these two access points but it is closed from February to June.

If you are going to see Pozo de los Humos during these months, expect to hike. If you are interested in geology and waterfalls, Pozo de los Humos is worth your time.

Related Read: Best Time To Visit Europe

3. Cascada de Orbaneja

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Cascada de Orbaneja is a waterfall that flows through the civilized world in Orbaneja del Castillo. It is a great example of nature and society coexisting in a harmonious manner.

The falls go under and below the village, interweaving themselves into their civilized surroundings. They can be viewed from the roadside, or as you stroll through town. There is no need to hike to them over steep terrain, as you may to other falls.

They are there in the town filled of history and modern luxuries. The stone buildings of the village sit above the falls, which cascade over lush green rock formations, during the wet season.

The waterfalls in Orbaneja del Castillo are only one sight worth seeing in the area. There is also a water cave and interesting rock formations.

You can spend hours exploring Organeja del Castillo taking in the falls and its other attractions. This waterfall if off the beaten path and not as touristy as other falls. It’s one of the easiest to view though, with its integration into town.

4. La Cimbarra

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Accessible by hiking a fairly easy loop trail, La Cimbarra is a popular waterfall near Aldeaquemada in the Jean Province of Spain. This waterfall is found in a gorge of Rio Guarrizas. The best option for viewing La Cimbarra is via a 1.2km loop trail.

Signage states this should take you about a half hour total. Past visitors suggest you give yourself more time to take on the hike. The trail takes you to the base of the falls for a stunning point of observation.

It also journeys up to an overlook for distant look. It’s awesome that one can see both views, during their hike and not have to choose to see one angle versus another due to limited time.

The loop trail is fairly exposed. The trail ventures up and down, depending on what section you are traversing. There is plenty of signage on the route to ensure you do not get lost.

Visitors have seen tortoises and lizards sunbathing along the trail to La Cimbarra, too. En route you should cross ruins of an old mill, giving you a look into Spain’s past.

5. Cascada de Linarejos

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This beautiful waterfall is located in the mountains of Cazorla. It is easy to access for most visitors, including children. It is accessible by hiking along designated trails.

There is the option to hike out and back to the lookout for the falls or complete a loop trail. The loop trail hike is a bit longer. This hike passes a dam and follows the towering cliffs that plummet into the gorge of Rio Guadalquivir.

There are also other hiking trails that spur from the main loop, allowing those that want to get a closer look at the falls that opportunity.

Cascada de Linarejos drops about 60 meters. It’s best viewed during the rainy months of the year. During the summer months, the waterfall has limited waterflow.

Cascada de Linarejos is truly a spectacular sight, if you are in the region at the right time and looking for an easy outdoor hike.

6. Salto de Sallent (Sant Privat d’en Bas)

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Salto de Sallent is located near Sant Privat d’en Bas. This waterfall has the same name as another waterfall in Spain located near Rubit. It towers 140 meters and a gorgeous sight to see. The waterfall can be reached by hiking an 8.5km route that passes numerous streams and weaves through a lush beech forest.

It’s recommended that you wear proper footwear before taking on the trek to Salto de Sallent. The trek to and from Salto de Sallent takes several hours. You will want to bring snacks and water along for your journey, too.

Along the hike to the falls, you can view a reservoir. The remains of the community that once occupied the land the reservoir engulfed can be seen looking into the reservoir. This includes the steeple of a church.

The hike to Salto de Sallent is peaceful. Near the top of the falls there is even an area for meditation, for those that want to further soak up their surroundings.

7. Salto de Sallent (Rubit)

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This waterfall has the same name as another waterfall near Sant Privat d’en Bas. The falls at Rubit are more popular and easier to access.

Located in the region of Catolonia, Salto Sallent is accessed by walking about thirty minutes or from driving to a carpark closer to the falls. The walk to the falls is fairly easy, but the carpark closer, allows almost anyone to access them.

Salto de Sallent is best viewed during the rainy months, from fall to spring. In the summertime, it can dry up. The falls are one of the largest in the region of Catolonia, at 115 meters tall.

If you are looking for a marvelous photo opportunity in nature, that is easy to access with kids or those with physical limitations, this waterfall near Rubit is worth taking the time to visit and explore.

8. Salto de la Novia

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Salto de la Novia, is not the easiest of waterfalls to access, due to slippery steps that can be algae covered. It can be accessed by foot or car.

There is fee to access the falls from the carpark, during certain times of the week or year. This fee is 2 Euros, which is well worth paying.

Those that choose to take the longer hike into the falls will be fascinated by the forest that surrounds the river leading to the falls. It’s an easy hike until you descend to the falls. At 10km, the hike can take a fair amount of time.

The closer route, from the falls only requires visitors to walk about 600m and takes a mere 15 minutes to tackle. Salto de la Novia is very popular, as there are places to picnic and swim during one’s visit.

If you are looking for a waterfall to hike into or just one to view as you have a picnic this waterfall is worth your time. The fee to access it is minimal and most agree it’s worth paying.

9. Chorros del Rio Mundo

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Chorros del Rio Mundo is one of the easiest waterfalls to access, as it’s only a short walk from a carpark to reach it. There are two lookout locations to see this waterfall from. You can view it from the base. This is the easiest way to view it.

One can also climb up a steep trail to view it from another angle. Many agree it’s worth tackling the steep terrain to reach this second view point for the 100-meter waterfall. This is the best of the two observation locations.

Chorros del Rio Mundo is in a fee-controlled area, but fairly affordable for most. It’s near the town of Riopar, located in the south of Spain.  It is fed by water from the nearby reservoir Calar de Mundo.

It’s found in a dense inviting forest. If you are looking to see waterfalls in a lush environment that are very accessible, this is a sight you will not want to miss.

10. Cascada del Diablo

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Cascada del Diablo is a waterfall that is popular for picnicking and taking pictures. It is easy to access, even for small children, as it can be reached by a short 150-meter walk from a parking lot.

On rainy days, you will want to be cautious, as the steps to the waterfall can be slick. That being said, the waterfalls are best in the rainy season from November to April. During the summer months, the falls can be nonexistent.

This location is very popular, go early if you want to avoid the crowds. There are many benches to view the waterfall from. This is also an ideal place to picnic.

The area around the falls has numerous stone and wooden tables to dine and socialize on, during your visit. If you are looking for a waterfall to view that won’t take all day to visit, this is a great place to visit.

11. Cascada de Ezaro

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Located in northwestern Spain, in the village of O’Ezaro, found in the Galicia-Ponteverdra region, Cascada de Ezaro is a waterfall that can be viewed all year. This is a rarity, as many of Spain’s waterfalls dry up in the summer months.

Cascada de Ezaro is located on the Rio Xallas, just before reaching the Atlantic Ocean. This is along the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, making it a popular place to visit.

Human impacts and use of water can be observed from Cascada de Ezaro, too. The falls are extremely close to a hydroelectric plant. Additionally, the waterfall’s proximity to the marina and beach in O’Ezaro, lure visitors to take in its beauty.

One unique thing about this waterfall is that it is lit up each night from 11pm to 12am, for those that want to experience Cascada de Ezaro at night.

Day or night, the waterfall is a magnificent sight. It’s easy to access and part of so much more with its proximity to the Camino de Santiago route and Atlantic Ocean.

12. Cascada de Pedrosa de Tobalina

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Cascada de Pedrosa de Tobalina wider than it is long during the wet season. During other parts of the year, when the river is dry, the waterfall is divided into two sections on each end of a bedrock slab. The falls are only about 10 meters in height.

This waterfall can be viewed from two different perspectives. The upper viewpoint is the most accessible. The lower observation point can be accessed from a path, that can get slippery after it rains.

Most of the time you can swim at the base of the falls or have a picnic. Unfortunately, sometimes the route to the swimming hole and picnic area and observation point at the base of the falls can be blocked by landslides.

Cascada de Pedrosa de Tobalina is about 200 meters from a parking area in the town of Pedrosa de Tobalino. Signs guide you to it. Some of the signs use the waterfall’s alternative name “Cascada el Penon.” If you are visiting you will want to be aware of this to prevent confusion.

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13. Monastario de Piedra

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This is not just one waterfall, but a park filled with several waterfalls and other attractions. It’s recommended you take a whole day to visit Monastario de Piedra or if you have the time and budget book a stay at the hotel and spa onsite.

Monastario de Piedra gives you access to numerous waterfalls, including Cascada Iris, Cascada Trinidad, and Cascada la Caprichosa.

When you first arrive and pay your fee to access the park, you will be provided with a map showing you how to access these waterfalls and other amazing natural features in the park.

Diana’s Bath, Lake of the Ducks, Cola de Caballo (a cave), and a number of grottos are all places you must visit in the park, if you are visiting. There is also a historic monastery, mirror lake, gardens, and playgrounds on the property, that delight visitors of all ages.

There are many photo opportunities at Monastario de Piedra. If you are looking for a place to recreate, soak up nature, explore history, and relax then you will want to visit Monastario de Piedra, during your visit to Spain.

14. Cascada de Caoza

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Cascada de Caoza (also referred to as Cascada Bonal is near Valdastillas and about 1km from the main road. It’s very easy to access, as the walk to the waterfall is just 100m from a parking lot. For those wanting to take a longer hike to the falls from the area, there is a 7km route from Valdastillas.

The waterfall is an excellent place to visit no matter how much time you have to experience the waterfall. Those that only have a half hour will prefer accessing it from the carpark, while those with more time can hike to it.

It’s best to visit the 30 meters tall waterfall, Cascada de Caoza, in the fall through spring months, when it is wettest. Cherry orchards surround the waterfall.

There is also a catwalk that allows visitors to view the waterfall from the front, at its base. This is a very beautiful area and accessible to most.

15. Fervenza do Toxa

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This is a 60-meter water fall in the Galicia region of Spain. This is an area where Galician is spoken. This language is a blend of Portuguese and Spanish.

Fervenza do Toxa is in a fairly wet environment, which allows it to flow heavier than other waterfalls in Spain, most of the year. The fern-filled forest surrounding Fervenza do Toxa flourishes, in the wet humid location, as well.

The waterfall can be accessed on a dirt road. The road is rough and uneven in many spots, so if your vehicle is low clearance it’s not recommended you drive it. It’s easy enough to walk for most though, with the proper attire. Closed-toed hiking shoes are recommended.

The hike to and from the waterfall can take an hour or more. There are tables to picnic on and a great swimming hole that the base of the falls. You may want to have a snack or lunch here on your hike. On hot days, bring your swim suit.

Fervenza do Toxa is not the easiest to find. Visitors complain the signage is poor and directions are limited to reach it coming into the area. If you are able to find the waterfall though, you will likely agree that it is worth the effort to seek out and truly a hidden gem in northwestern Spain.